How to Create a Wildlife Pond

A wildlife pond is one of the best things you can add to a garden. Even a small pond attracts frogs, newts, dragonflies, birds and countless other creatures. Here is how to create one.

Choosing a location

• Partial shade is ideal – full sun encourages algae, deep shade limits plant growth.
• Away from overhanging trees – falling leaves cause problems.
• Level ground or a natural low point.
• Visible from the house so you can enjoy watching wildlife.

Size and shape

Bigger is generally better for wildlife, but even a washing-up bowl sunk into the ground will attract creatures. Aim for at least 1m x 1m if you have space, with a depth of at least 60cm in the deepest part.

Irregular, natural shapes look better than geometric ones. Include shallow edges (beach areas) so animals can get in and out easily.

Digging the pond

1. Mark out the shape with a hosepipe or rope.
2. Dig out the pond in tiers – shallow shelves around the edge, deeper in the middle.
3. Create at least one gently sloping edge (beach) for wildlife access.
4. Check the edges are level using a spirit level on a plank.
5. Remove any sharp stones or roots that could puncture the liner.
6. Add a 5cm layer of soft sand or old carpet as underlay.

Lining the pond

Butyl rubber liner is the most durable option. Calculate the size needed: length + (2 x depth) + 60cm overlap, and the same for width.

1. Drape the liner loosely over the hole.
2. Weigh down the edges with stones.
3. Fill slowly with water, adjusting the liner as it settles.
4. Trim excess liner, leaving 30cm overlap.
5. Hide the edges with turf, stones or planting.

Filling and planting

Rainwater is best, but tap water is fine – just let it stand for a few days before adding plants. Do not add fish – they eat tadpoles and other wildlife.

Good plants for wildlife ponds:

• Oxygenators: Hornwort, water starwort – keep the water healthy.
• Marginals: Marsh marigold, water forget-me-not, purple loosestrife – for the shallow edges.
• Floating: Frogbit, water soldier – provide cover.

Avoid invasive plants like Canadian pondweed or parrot's feather.

Attracting wildlife

Wildlife will find your pond surprisingly quickly. To help:

• Add a log pile or rockery nearby for shelter.
• Let grass grow long around part of the pond.
• Include a shallow beach area for drinking and bathing birds.
• Add a few stones or a branch as perches for dragonflies.

Maintenance

• Remove blanket weed by twisting it around a stick.
• Thin out plants if they become too dense.
• Top up water levels in dry weather.
• Remove fallen leaves in autumn.
• Do major maintenance in autumn, not spring when amphibians are breeding.